Thanks to Hickok45, I now have my Model 66 - Range report update

[w1984s]

Thanks to Hickok45 I now have my Model 66. It's a no dash with the stainless rear sight and blade. It appears to have been fired very little as it only has a slight turn line. I watched it go through two auctions on GB with no bids hitting the reserve. On the third time it I saw listed I bit the bullet and met the reserve (ouch)! Got it home, cleaned it up and fell in love all over again! (What is it about the 66?) It doesn't have the original grips but came with Herrett's Model RK that feel REALLY good in the hand. I haven't shot it yet but plan to go the range in a couple of weeks. I believe it was manufactured fairly early as its serial number is 2K53989. If anyone can give a shipped date I would appreciate it, it would be nice to know.









Finally got to the range; took the Model 66 and a few of its cousins.



First cylinder with the Herrett's grips from 7 yards. (picture not too good)



Switched to some Hogue rubber, fired several rounds and settled in somewhat. I have never been a great shot so I was happy with these groups fired from 2 cylinders back to back.



Got it home, cleaned it up and put on these grips I just got off of GB. All in all, it was a good day.



I want to thank everyone for all the replies and I am happy to be in such good company as we have here in the forum.

 

[BigBill]

Hickok45 is D MAN. He's the "SHOOTER" of our time like his name sake.

Congrats on your purchase. I'm ignorant when it comes to these. There "L" frames right?

 

[05CarbonDRZ]

No,They are K Frames.Think of them as Stainless Model 19's.

 

[ILTim]

What a beaut. The model 19 & 66 (same gun, different steel) are at the top of the firearm bell curve in all-time popularity for good reason. Owning one helps put perspective on all other handguns. So very versatile and well matched to task, nearly any task.

 

[gwpercle]

What a beaut. The model 19 & 66 (same gun, different steel) are at the top of the firearm bell curve in all-time popularity for good reason. Owning one helps put perspective on all other handguns. So very versatile and well matched to task, nearly any task.

So much so that S&W has started manufacturing them again. The MSRP for a new one is $849. Of course it will have the pesky/hated lock. Still, if I had the cash I would be after one....who knows how long they will be around!
Gary

 

[ladder13]

Looks like 1971 manufacture.

 

[BigBill]

I don't care about the loc. It's ok with me either way. I went to an online dealer I visit often and his new gun for sale list was around 75% plastic.
That's 25% revolvers when we do the math.

I hope there's enough wheel gun guys to keep s&w offering new revolvers.

 

[05CarbonDRZ]

Almost every time I go to the Indoor Range someone asks about my Revolvers.After letting them shoot a Cylinder or Two they ALL say "Man,I have to get one of these!"

 

[Firemanjones]

That stainless looks really great, I just purchased a Model 19 today. Congratulations on you find.

 

[SJshooter]

I've wasted many hours watching Hickok45's videos. He has some awesome revolver videos that feature some amazing shooting.

 

[Engine49guy]

The Model 66 was introduced in 1970 and yours is fairly early say maybe 1972/73.
The early SS site guns will continue to appreciate in time as they are unique so this one deserves a nice set of age appropriate football relieved GA targets in like condition with correct SS washers for a SS gun.

 

[w1984s]

Thank you all for your replies!

Engine29guy, I figured it was from early in the run because of the 2K serial number and I will look for the appropriate stocks. Thank you.

 

[old bear]

I haven't shot it yet but plan to go the range in a couple of weeks.

Wait a few weeks to shot that guy for the first time? I'm so sorry to hear that you are laid-up. Wishing you a speedy recovery

 

[w1984s]

Working nights trying to keeps us all supplied with gasoline.

 

[M29since14]

That's a nice looking 66. You'll soon forget about the price. Congrats on your new sixgun.

 

[Tom_R]

Almost every time I go to the Indoor Range someone asks about my Revolvers.After letting them shoot a Cylinder or Two they ALL say "Man,I have to get one of these!"

I am a Sig-Sauer P226 Guy, and a 1911 fan, yet, Revolvers are my new passion. Especially S&Ws.

Its almost like having a Light Saber, a more elegant weapon from a more civilized time.

But really the versatility they offer is what is key about them.

 

[old bear]

Working nights trying to keeps us all supplied with gasoline.
Reply With Quote

Well, OK then.

 

[donadler]

66-0 and nickel 19

Gotta love 'em!!

 

[Seven High]

I suggest that you lube the works then dry fire it approximately 1000 times. This will smooth up the double action

 

[bananaman]

Congratulations! Kind of looks like my 67 no dash. I have the same grips on it, except they have a polished metal grip cap. Yea I know, you have a magnum gun, and mine is .38 special. I still like it though.
I bought a Model 36 because Hickok hit a gong at 80 yards! He shoots awesome. Enjoy your Smith! Bob